The weather in Texas is known for its extremes. Summers bring high temperatures, often above 90 degrees, with little relief. Winters can be just as brutal with freezing temperatures, which results in your HVAC system working overtime. The monthly utility bills can make a dent in your company’s operating budget. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates your commercial HVAC system is responsible for around 51% of your energy usage.
An effective way to reduce electrical costs and do something good for the environment is to improve the energy efficiency of your commercial building. Not only can it lower costs, but it can also boost your brand recognition. More and more consumers are looking at a company’s impact on the environment. At CS Mechanical, we can help you reduce your building’s energy usage.
Economizer
We often recommend installing an economizer for our commercial clients. Not sure what an economizer is or what the component does? It’s a damper vent that works with your HVAC system. In simple terms, the component gives your HVAC unit a rest during extreme temperatures. Not only does this help prolong the life of your HVAC, but it also reduces energy usage.
Economizers use sensors that monitor outside air temperature and humidity levels, comparing them to the air inside the commercial building. When the outside air is at the right temperature, the vent opens, allowing the air to flow indoors instead of activating the HVAC system. When the outdoor air is at a higher or lower temperature than the preset one indoors, the vent closes, and the HVAC system kicks on.
Most of our commercial clients see a return on the economizer investment within two years or so.
Energy Efficient HVAC
Installing a new HVAC system is a way to reduce energy usage. Modern air conditioning and heating systems are designed to conserve energy. You can also take steps to improve the energy efficiency of an existing unit.
Our technicians at CS Mechanical recommend performing routine maintenance. Having a maintenance schedule in place makes it easier for staff to know when to replace the filters and check for potential problems like worn-out parts.
Sometimes it might be necessary to replace an outdated boiler. A newer component can result in an estimated 35% to 45% savings on your energy bills. Compared to older boilers that have an 80% thermal efficiency rating, when everything is working properly, newer models have a 95% and higher energy efficiency rating. This alone equals noticeable savings on your energy bills.
Sometimes planning ahead for hot summer temperatures and cold winter weather can result in a more efficient HVAC system. An effective way is to pay attention to peak energy demands. When energy demands are at their highest, utility companies charge more for the energy used. Cooling the indoor air during the morning hours, before temperatures rise in the afternoon, can result in your HVAC system working less during peak rate hours.
You may also want to consider installing smart blinds in the facility. Insulated windows are another great option, especially with smart window treatments. Smart blinds can be either automatic or manually controlled. When the blinds are automatic, they raise and lower according to the sunlight entering the room. You can program the blinds or manually adjust the blinds as needed.
Seal Ductwork
Compared to other solutions, sealing a building’s ductwork is often at the bottom. However, this can be a mistake. The payback period for the project may be longer, usually around four to seven years, but it can also produce a noticeable effect on a building’s energy usage.
ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerant, and Air-conditioning Engineers) estimates a 20% leakage in your exhaust system can increase your energy usage by 95%.
Tightening loose connections and sealing ductwork can help make your HVAC system more energy efficient.
Upgrade to VRF System
VRF (Variable refrigerant flow) systems are an ideal solution for larger facilities with multiple HVAC units. A VRF system allows you to independently control the various units. You can provide the right amount of coolant to each unit as needed while allowing other less necessary components to rest.
VFR systems can also be used in HVAC fans, pumps, and blowers. The system allows for various speed settings, which reduces how often the HVAC unit cycles on and off. Reducing the number of cycles results in noticeable energy savings. Another advantage of VRF systems is it helps your employees stay comfortable, which often translates into an increase in productivity.
Talk to CS Mechanical About Improving Your Facility’s Energy Efficiency
There are numerous steps facility owners and managers can take to improve energy efficiency, and we are here to help. Whether it is advice or an installation of a new HVAC or VRF system, our licensed technicians have the skills and experience necessary to complete the project.
Contact us today to learn more!